Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti believes that Andrea Pirlo is still very important to the Italian national team, despite some suggesting that he could be replaced by the young midfielder.
The 22-year-old started instead of Pirlo in the heart of Italy's midfield for their 3-1 win against Azerbaijan after the New York City man was ruled out with a hamstring injury.
The Italian impressed in Baku, providing the assist for Eder's opening goal but Verratti has played down talk that he will be a permenant replacement for the 36-year-old.
The PSG midfielder told La Gazzetta dello Sport: "There is no inheritance to collect, Pirlo is here, he is the most important player in this group. We need to make the most of what he brings for as long as we can.
"I do make the most of it. We speak often and he helps me even when we don't speak. It's enough just for me to watch him play. This wasn't about taking on his mantle or taking control of the team."
Italy take on Norway at the Stadio Olimpico on Tuesday to decide who will top Group H .
Nathan Staples
